Maritime Accessibility Conference 2022

Disability organisations and maritime transport operators from across the country came together today for the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) and Department for Transport’s (DfT) Maritime Accessibility Conference.

Taking place in Southampton, the day of talks, presentations and networking was an opportunity to encourage communication between the two sectors, with more than 60 guests in attendance.

Representatives from MCA, DfT, the Disabled Person Transport Advisory Committee, Hover Travel, Guide Dogs UK, Red Funnel and Carnival Cruises were some of the guests and speakers involved.

MCA and DfT opened the conference outlining the regulatory and enforcement requirements and accessibility initiatives of both agencies.

The floor was then open for organisations and individuals to come forward with thoughts on accessibility schemes, experiences and future objectives.

Tanvi Vyas spoke of lived experiences as a powered wheelchair user, and Victoria Garcia shared her thoughts on improved bus accessibility in Brighton and Hove.

Maritime Minister Baroness Vere said:

“Transport must be accessible for everyone, and we want to ensure everyone can travel by sea with ease.

“That’s why I’m delighted our thriving maritime industry is taking pioneering steps on this issue, and Government is backing vital work to accommodate anyone who wishes to sail in our waters – from subtitling safety videos to fitting vessels with ramps and lifts.”

Danny Light, MCA

MCA Passenger Rights Enforcement Officer Danny Light added:

“This is the first time we have run this event, and we are confident it has both provided guidance and understanding of accessibility rights and regulations already in action, while highlighting where improvements can be made within the industry.

“We would like to thank all of our guests and speakers who attended today.

“We were delighted to share what we do and our objectives with all of you, as well as gain insight into your own roles and experiences.”

Background:

The MCA is the Maritime Passenger Rights National Enforcement Body (NEB) for the UK. The MCA investigates complaints of a serious nature to establish if enforcement action is necessary.

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